Walkers step out to help victims of poverty

Walkers ready to set off at St Paul's Church in Jarrow. Photo: Christian Aid North East.

Published:15:45Wednesday 12 August 2015

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Sixty walkers from Sunderland, South Tyneside and across the North East, were joined by the Bishop of Durham on a sponsored walk to raise money for Christian Aid.

The hikers were taking part in the annual Christian Aid Bede’s Way walk.

There were two to choose from - four or 12 miles - taking in Jarrow and Monkwearmouth, while following the route of Bede.

Participants also had the extra challenge of carrying firewood in solidarity with women living in poverty in Ethiopia and to raise awareness of the difficulties many women face around the world.

The walkers have raised more than £3,500 to help get people out of poverty, including people like Loko Jarso.

Four times a week, in a remote corner of Ethiopia, Loko makes an eight-hour trip to gather wood, which she sells so she can feed her family.

Thanks to money raised by people like the Bede’s Way walkers, Loko has received a cow and two goats, which has transformed her life, providing her with milk, which can feed her family and provide an income.

Event organiser Emma Peak said: “We are very thankful to everyone who took part in this walk for their fantastic fundraising, which makes our work possible.

“We are additionally thankful to the churches of St Paul’s, Jarrow, and St Peter’s, Monkwearmouth, for their hospitality.”